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Axillary F central latency: simple electrodiagnostic technique for proximal neuropathy
Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
|March 1, 1983
Summary
A new method accurately measures proximal nerve conduction time using Axillary F Central Latency (AFCL). This technique aids in diagnosing neuropathies and myelopathies by identifying prolonged AFCL values.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurophysiology
- Clinical Electrophysiology
Background:
- Peripheral nerve conduction studies are crucial for diagnosing neurological disorders.
- Assessing proximal nerve segments presents technical challenges.
- F-wave analysis offers a potential method for evaluating nerve conduction.
Observation:
- A simple technique for measuring F-wave conduction time in proximal peripheral nerves is presented.
- The method utilizes F-wave (Fw), wrist M response (Mw), and axillary M response (Ma) to calculate Axillary F Central Latency (AFCL).
- AFCL represents the conduction time between the spinal cord and the axilla.
Findings:
- The formula AFCL = (Mw + Fw) - 2Ma was used.
- In 30 normal subjects, the mean AFCL was 11.2 +/- 0.8 msec for ulnar or median nerves.
- An AFCL exceeding 13.6 msec (mean + 3SD) or a side-to-side discrepancy > 2.1 msec suggests proximal nerve segment abnormality.
Implications:
- This technique can aid in diagnosing proximal neuropathies and myelopathies.
- Prolonged AFCL was observed in patients with Guillain-Barré syndrome, brachial plexus lesions, syringomyelia, and thoracic outlet syndrome.
- The AFCL measurement provides a valuable tool for clinical neurophysiology and neurological diagnostics.